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    Tiger 850 Sport Debuts On Triumph India Website – Price Reveal Soon

    Triumph Tiger 850 Sport
    Upon its launch, Triumph Tiger 850 Sport will rival the likes of Kawasaki Versys 1000 and the upcoming KTM 790 Adventure

    Triumph Motorcycles unveiled the Tiger 850 Sport over a month ago and now the British bikemaker has listed its upcoming middleweight adventure tourer on its official India website. Upon its launch, Tiger 850 Sport will serve as the brand’s entry-level motorcycle and positioned below Tiger 900.
    According to the company, Tiger 850 Sport has been primarily targeted at an audience which is still relatively new to biking at a more affordable rate. It caters to the demands of consumers who do not seek overloaded technical gizmos on its equipment yet provides strong performance for a thrilling ride.
    Powertrain & Tranmission
    The name would suggest that it is a scaled-down version of Tiger 900, however, that is not the case as it is essentially the same bike. It is powered by the same 888cc in-line three-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with T-Plane crankshaft which also powers Tiger 900. However, Triumph has detuned the output of this unit to produce 84 bhp and at 8,500 rpm and 82 Nm at 6,500 which is 10 bhp and 5 Nm less than its older sibling.
    Triumph has done this to make it a more approachable option for first-time riders. This unit is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch for smoother gear shifts. This motor also ensures a more linear delivery of power.
    Tiger 850 Sport India Price Reveal Soon
    Dynamics
    This iteration of the ADV tourer has been developed more for road-focused touring rather than trail bashing off-road adventures. Therefore, it receives road-biased tyres and a non-adjustable suspension setup. It is offered with a 45mm upside-down forks at front with 180mm travel and gas pressurised manual preload adjustment mono-shock at rear with a travel of 170mm from Marzocchi.
    Anchorage duties are handled by a pair of 320 mm front discs with monoblock 4-piston Brembo Stylema callipers and a 255 mm single disc with Brembo single-piston sliding calliper at rear. These are assisted by dual-channel ABS. Tiger 850 rolls on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels with 100/90 and 150/70 profile of tyres wrapped around.
    Features on offer
    In terms of electronic aids, Triumph has thrown in two riding modes- road and rain, with Ride-by-wire throttle and switchable traction control. Its list of features also consists of an all-LED lighting setup with DRLs, an adjustable windscreen, a USB charging port and a five-inch TFT instrument display which provides crucial readouts from odometer, speedometer, trip meter, etc. Apart from these, Triumph will also offer a number of optional accessories packages to spruce up the Tiger 850.
    Launch of Tiger 850 in India will be preceded by the launch of the all-new Trident 660 which is expected to hit showrooms in a few days time. As far as pricing goes, Tiger 850 Sport is likely to be priced around Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). The British brand recently revealed that it has lined up nine new models for the Indian market which will be launched in the space of the next six months. More

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    2021 Royal Enfield 650 Twins Conti GT Spied – Facelift With Tripper Navigation?

    2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Spied
    While Interceptor is a retro classic roadster, Continental GT 650 is a retro cafe racer

    Ever since their launch in 2018, the 650 Twins- Interceptor and Continental GT have been the eye candy for Royal Enfield consumers. Especially those seeking a fun and spirited motorcycle to ride something different from retro commuter and cruiser motorcycles for which the brand is best known.
    The models have been instrumental for Royal Enfield’s resurgence as a global brand since both the models have received positive feedback from Royal Enfield customers of overseas markets. Now, the brand is looking to give a minor mid-life facelift to both its premium offerings.
    Changes Expected
    Spy shots of the 2021 RE 650 Twins have been clicked by automotive enthusiast Arjun, near ECR in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Though there has been no official announcement regarding a facelift for Interceptor 650 and Conti GT 650, recent announcements by Royal Enfield and the timing of these getting spied, does indicate towards an incoming facelift for 650 Twins.
    Recently, Royal Enfield claimed that they would be launching at least 28 new motorcycles in the next seven years; which means one new motorcycle every quarter. It is likely that a mid-life facelift to the 650 Twins fits the bill. If that is the case, these are the first reported set of 650 Twins Facelift. If we were to guess, then this new facelifted 650 Twins are expected to launch sometime next year.
    2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Spied
    New Colours, Tripper Navigation
    The RE 650 Interceptor facelift and Continental GT 650 Facelift are not likely to incorporate any major changes, maybe only small cosmetic changes, new colours or a slight tweak to its engine to draw more output of it. In all probability, Royal Enfield will give facelift to Continental GT and Interceptor at the same time.
    Facelifted RE 650 Twins will continue with the same retro classic styling with round halogen headlamps, spoked wheels (alloys launch planned), minimal body panels and twin exhaust mufflers. It is also likely to get bluetooth enabled tripper navigation, which was recently launched with Meteor 350.
    2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Spied
    Engine
    Both 650 Twins are powered by a 648c parallel-twin oil-cooled engine which in its BS6 form churns out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque. This unit is linked to a 6-speed gearbox. While Interceptor 650 is offered at a starting price of Rs 2.66 lakh, Continental GT 650 is pegged at a starting price of Rs 2.82 lakh (both prices are ex-showroom).
    Facelifted 650 Twins might get a minor bump in price, in comparison to the current prices. Royal Enfield has also announced that from Feb 2021, the 650 Twins will come with optional alloys. Existing customers can purchase the same from company dealers or via their website and get them replaced on their motorcycles. It is likely that the facelifted 650 Twins come with factory fitted alloys when launched later next year. More

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    2021 Tata Nano Electric Spied With Digital Speedometer – Jayem Neo

    Tata Nano Electric – Jayem Neo
    The Tata Nano EV with standard airbag and ABS would be an interesting proposition in the current scenario

    Back in November 2017, Tata Motors and its long-standing collaborator Jayem Automotives announced a partnership to introduce electric version of the Tata Nano under the Jayem Neo brand. The Neo was originally supposed to be inducted into Ola Electric’s fleet with a reported order size of 400 units.
    After a delay of almost 2 years, in mid-2019, it was reported that Ola Electric secured a debt fund of INR 40 cr from Tata Motors Finance to purchase Jayem Neo EV as city taxi. Now, a 2021 Tata Nano electric test mule has been spotted in Akurdi, Pune.
    Tata Nano EV / Jayem Neo yet to see the light of day
    It’s been over three years since the first announcement but the Tata Nano EV a.k.a. Jayem Neo has neither been introduced as an urban taxi nor as a private vehicle. However, it seems Tata and Jayem haven’t completely ditched the project as evident from the recent spotting of an undisguised Neo test mule. Spy shots are credit to Pravin Nair, who shared the images on Rushlane Spylane Facebook Group.
    As far as design is concerned, the Jayem Neo is identical to the now-defunct Tata Nano but it does not feature Tata branding anywhere. This particular mule features black bumper to keep the costs low. Closer observation reveals that the Neo EV is equipped with a fully digital instrument display which is mounted above the center console.
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    Specifications
    Based on the spy video from Smiley Tamilian Tech above, the Tata Nano EV is powered by a 17.7 kW, 48V (23 hp) electric motor supplied by Electra EV, which also supplies electric powertrain to Tiago and Tigor. According to the original arrangement made 3 years ago, Tata Motors was supposed supply Jayem with complete body panels of the car and the Coimbatore-based company was supposed to install the electric powertrain and retail it.
    Tata Motors discontinued the Nano as the poor demand did not justify re-engineering the vehicle to meet the latest vehicle safety norms. However, if the company still hopes to leverage the small car’s untapped potential in the emerging electric vehicle market, then a comprehensive safety update is necessary.
    Tata Nano Electric Specs
    Launch Plans
    Whether it is going to be marketed as Tata Nano EV or Jayem Neo, the urban runabout would have to be fitted with driver airbag, ABS, front passenger seat belt reminder and reverse parking sensor as standard. Top speed will be 85 kmph. It is also FAME II certified.
    The Tata Nano Electric will have a maximum range of 203 km. With AC on and 4 adults on board, the vehicle should return a range of around 140 km. We think that, with a silent powertrain and appropriate marketing strategy, the Tata Nano EV could be an interesting proposition as both urban taxi and a private vehicle. More

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    Jeep Building In-House Customization Facility Near Wrangler/Gladiator Plant

    Jeep is reportedly planning to expand further into the world of factory customs by opening a dedicated facility near where it builds the Wrangler and Gladiator in Toledo, Ohio.
    According to the Toledo Blade, Jeep will build a customization facility on a complex of properties formerly owned by Textileather and MedCorp, the most recent of which shut down in 2013. Fiat Chrysler is paying $1 for the site and plans to build a new 250,000-square-foot facility on it. The new location will be operated by an unnamed supplier and employ over 300 people.

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    Jeep confirmed the sale to Autoblog but did not discuss further details on what exactly it plans to do inside. Considering its proximity to the Wrangler and Gladiator assembly complex, also in Toledo, it’s likely we’re about to see a lot more factory customs based on the two off-roaders coming in the near future. Since these are the most often customized models in Jeep’s lineup, it makes sense to see the company put such significant investment behind this.
    “The iconic Jeep brand has a special connection and history with Toledo and all of its residents,” FCA spokesman Kevin E. Frazier told the Toledo Blade over email. “We appreciate the city council’s consideration of this proposal and would like to thank the city of Toledo and the mayor’s office for all of their efforts. At this time, we have no further details to provide.”

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    Ford Fusion Leaked Images Show Wagon Shape, Wall-to-Wall Screens

    Leaked images of a camouflaged prototype seem to show a new version of the Ford Fusion with a station-wagon shape.
    This fuels the rumor that the Fusion nameplate will return on a new model that will be a Subaru Outback rival.
    Possibly called the Fusion Active, we expect this car to debut sometime in 2021.

    Ford Fusion Active Wagon Set to Replace Sedan

    Next Ford Fusion Takes Shape as a Lifted Wagon

    The Ford Fusion is dead, long live the Ford Fusion. While the mid-size sedan as we know it is gone, it seems that there’s credence to the speculation about a new Fusion that will take a different form. If these leaked photos are to be believed, this is our first look at the next Fusion (called the Mondeo in other markets), which will be marketed in the U.S. as a lifted all-wheel-drive station wagon in the vein of the popular Subaru Outback.

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    We’re not sure where the camouflaged images originate from, but they’re circulating on various Instagram accounts and Chinese websites. A few important clues point to its identity as a Ford. The front grille looks like many other current Fords, and there’s a cutout perfectly shaped for the blue oval logo. And around back, this version has a clear station-wagon profile, with a small window aft of the C-pillar and a gently sloping rear hatch.
    The slim headlights create a much more futuristic face, and they’re connected by a metallic bar that runs across the width of the car. And the interior will benefit from a modern makeover as well, with a set of screens that stretches across the entire dashboard. We’ve seen big touchscreens from Ford, but nothing quite like this, as it almost looks like a single piece of glass that extends all the way onto the passenger’s side of the dashboard.
    While these photos don’t reveal the car’s height or body cladding, we’re expecting the Fusion to have a lifted suspension and black plastic cladding to give it an SUV-esque stance. It will likely have standard all-wheel drive to best compete with the Outback.
    Ford has yet to say anything official about the new Fusion, but we expect it to arrive sooner rather than later. A debut sometime in 2021 isn’t out of the question, meaning the Fusion Active may go on sale by the time the 2022 model year rolls around.
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    Honda CB350 Exports Grow 205% In Nov 2020 – Still Behind RE Classic, Meteor

    Image – Gajanan
    Along with domestic sales, new Honda CB350 exports are also on the rise

    Honda H’ness CB350, launched in India in October 2020, has shown impressive start in the 350cc motorcycle segment. Sales got off to a fairly good start with the Honda H’Ness CB350 registering a sale of 1,290 units in the first month of sales. 2nd month, Nov 2020 saw sales increase to 4,067 units.
    No other motorcycle launched in the past to Royal Enfield 350cc range, has shown this good jump in sales. Be it Jawa or Benelli or the Dominar to an extent – who went all out against the REs with the Hathi Mat Paalo campaign.
    Sales and Exports Grow
    Honda CB350 posted 215% increase in sales, and that too when they are not even on offer at their entire dealer network across India. Honda CB350 is only on sale at select dealers in select cities as of now. Next year will see more cities get the new Honda motorcycle.
    Along with domestic sales, Honda has also been increasing export numbers of the CB350. After exported their first batch of 30 units in Oct 2020, Nov 2020 saw Honda export 92 units of the CB350. It is not clear as to which countries are getting this made in India 350cc motorcycle from Honda.
    350cc Motorcycle Sales and Exports – Nov 2020
    Both, domestic and exports of CB350 has grown by more than 200% in Nov 2020. But it still has a far way to go, in order to make a dent in the Royal Enfield camp – which continues to enjoy an elephant’s share, thanks to Classic and Meteor 350.
    Honda BigWing Dealers To Be Expanded
    At the time of launch, there were only 5 BigWing dealerships in India which the company is now in the process of expanding. This would ensure a shorter waiting period especially when compared to its prime rival RE Meteor 350, which commands a waiting period of upto 4 months in many cities.
    By the end of December, Honda expects to open 25 more BigWing outlets across different regions in India. Over the next two years plans are on to inaugurate around 250-300 BigWing dealerships so as to reach out to more customers with a constantly expanding product portfolio.
    Yes, this will help increase sales. But it is also likely to increase waiting period. Honda H’ness CB350 currently commands a waiting period of around 1 month specially where the dual tone blue colour option of the DLX Pro variant is concerned.
    One of the biggest two wheeler launches of 2020
    Honda H’Ness CB350 is offered in two variants of DLX and DLX Pro and priced at Rs.1.85 lakhs and Rs.1.90 lakhs respectively. It borrows much of its styling from the earlier CB350 but with modern touches of full LED lighting, Selectable Torque Control and Bluetooth enabled instrument. Honda is also offering an entire list of accessories that come in at an affordable price tag giving customers a host of options to choose from.
    Engine specifications include a 348cc, single cylinder, air cooled engine offering 21 hp power at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. It receives telescopic front fork and twin rear shock absorbers while braking is via 310mm front and 240mm rear disc with dual channel ABS as standard. More

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    Bajaj-Triumph Sub Rs 2 Lakh Motorcycle Launch Delayed To 2023

    Bajaj Triumph motorcycle render
    The Covid-19 pandemic has played spoilsport to another new automotive project in India

    The Bajaj-Triumph partnership is one of the most talked-about joint ventures in the Indian automotive industry in recent past. Both companies entered into a long-term partnership in 2017 which will focus on a non-equity tie-up to develop mid-capacity motorcycles ranging from 200cc to 750cc.
    However, the first product out of this joint venture might face a delay due to the ongoing crisis. In an interaction with ET Auto, Rajiv Bajaj, MD, Bajaj Auto, has revealed that the upcoming bike from Bajaj-Triumph partnership could be delayed by several months because of the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.
    Delayed to 2023
    Bajaj said that due to COVID-19-related disruptions, launch of the first Bajaj-Triumph bike may get deferred to 2023. It was earlier reported that this JV planned to bring out its first model sometime in 2022. Both bikemakers have remained reticent about the models to be developed under this JV. However, some reports indicate that its lineup will include Triumph Tiger, a baby Daytona 250 and a mini Bonneville.
    Although one thing is clear that most of these motorcycles under this tie-up will be manufactured at Bajaj’s facility in Chakan near Pune in Maharashtra with localisation up to 99 percent as in the case with Bajaj-KTM partnership.
    Bajaj Triumph motorcycle render
    Additionally, Bajaj will also be responsible for marketing and sales of Triumph motorcycles in India manufactured by it as well as oversee the exports to neighbouring countries in the subcontinent, Asia, Africa and other markets.
    Expected Details of the first model
    All these motorcycles under this JV are likely to wear the nameplate of Triumph. The first model out of this is likely to be built on a 200cc platform which will be powered by the same 200cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which also powers Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and KTM Duke 200. This bike is expected to be based on the entry-level Triumph Bonneville which sports a retro-classic design.
    It might feature a round headlamp, a single-piece flat seat, alloy wheels, a tear drop shaped fuel tank and a semi-digital instrument cluster. Anchorage duties might be handled by disc brakes on both ends assisted by a dual-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard. This motorcycle is likely to be priced below Rs 2.0 lakh (ex-showroom) and will rival models from Royal Enfield and Jawa.
    In recent times, we have witnessed many foreign high-end bikemakers partner with Indian manufacturers to offer affordable premium motorcycles for Indian consumers. Some of the notable examples are TVS-BMW Motorrad, Bajaj-KTM, Jawa-Classic Legends and the most recent being Hero MotoCorp-Harley Davidson.
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